SAN JOSE, Calif. — A 27-year-old man has been charged with three counts of murder in connection with a shooting that took the lives of a woman and two men in San Jose. Authorities allege that Joseph Vicencio committed the killings to silence potential witnesses in a domestic violence case just two days prior.
The violent incident occurred early Tuesday morning at a home on Chynoweth Avenue, where police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and cries for help. Upon arrival, officers found a woman outside the residence suffering from gunshot wounds. She was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Inside the home, police discovered the bodies of 26-year-old Tarrah Lynn Taylor and her 24-year-old roommate Jeannessa Lurie. A 26-year-old man named Max Ryan was also found gravely injured and was later declared dead at the hospital. Authorities believe Vicencio targeted these individuals to prevent them from cooperating with an ongoing investigation regarding his alleged assault on Taylor.
Court documents indicate that Taylor had contacted police just a day before the shooting, reporting that Vicencio had physically assaulted her, including an incident in which he allegedly choked her. Despite evidence documented by officers, including bruises on Taylor’s neck, Vicencio was not arrested immediately.
Investigators suspect that Vicencio returned to the home to eliminate Taylor and any witnesses who could testify against him. Surveillance cameras reportedly showed him leaving the scene carrying a distinctive satchel, which he later discarded in a nearby sewer. Police recovered the bag and found a firearm believed to have been used in the shootings.
Witnesses have provided further insights, revealing that Vicencio expressed anxieties about possible repercussions from the previous assault. One acquaintance recounted that Vicencio claimed he “couldn’t have loose ends and people talking.” This individual had previously warned Vicencio against any violent actions.
Another witness reported that Vicencio acknowledged an altercation with a male in the apartment but downplayed the severity of the situation, further suggesting his involvement in the crimes.
While details regarding Vicencio’s relationship with Taylor are limited, records show he has a history of violent behavior, dating back to at least 2019 when he was accused of discharging a firearm near San Jose State University’s library. His lengthy criminal record raises concerns about his history of violent incidents.
Vicencio is currently in custody and is scheduled for a court appearance on October 24. As law enforcement continues to investigate the triple homicide, they are gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to establish a clearer picture of the events leading up to the tragic incident.